Rutin sources, health benefits and uses

Rutin, also known as rutoside, is a bioflavnonoid or plant pigment that can be found in multiple types of plants, vegetables, and fruits. While its name is derived from the rue (Ruta graveolens) herb, rutin is actually a complex sugar made by combining quercetin with rutinose. In recent years, a lot of attention has been placed upon rutin for its wide spectrum of purported health benefits, the most noteworthy of which is its ability to aid in the human body’s utilization of the antioxidant-acting vitamin C. This is far from being the only benefit that can be reaped from rutin, however.

There are many sources of rutin, with buckwheat having the densest concentration. Other sources include citrus fruits, black tea, and the peels of apples. Rutin tablets and capsules are available in health stores too, though natural sources are still recommended over supplements. Excessive ingestion of high and concentrated rutin supplements have been linked to blurred vision, muscle stiffness, headaches, and gastrointestinal upset.

Conversely, individuals who may need to increase their intake of rutin include those who have varicose veins or hemorrhoids.

Medicinal uses for rutin

Rutin can prevent the formation of blood clots by acting as a blood thinner. As a result, rutin can prevent the onset of particular disease that usually develop from blood clotting, such as deep vein thrombosis, stroke, heart attack, and pulmonary embolism. In turn, this means that individuals who are already on blood thinning medication or have a history of blood clots should exercise caution when taking in rutin-rich foods or rutin supplements.

In addition to reducing the chances of blood clots, rutin can significantly improve circulation by enhancing the flexibility and strength of blood vessels. These actions lessen the risks of spider veins and varicose veins, and can even be useful to those who require treatment for hemorrhoids or are recovering from the surgical removal of hemorrhoids.

The powerful antioxidant and mild anti-inflammatory properties of rutin have allowed it be used in the alleviation of arthritic pain.

Rutin’s antioxidant effects have also proven useful against high cholesterol. Frequent consumption of foods that are dense with rutin have been shown to reduce levels of bad or low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.

As was mentioned previously, rutin can help in the utilization of vitamin C. Taking rutin along with this essential vitamin has been shown to intensify the activity of vitamin C.

There is evidence that rutin can help in the management of glaucoma by stabilizing the pressure within the eyeball, or the intralocular pressure. This is most likely due to the impact of rutin on vitamin C, as vitamin C can help maintain health vision.

Rutin has been observed as increasing bone density and stalling the onset of osteoporosis.

Body systems supported by rutin

Thanks to its ability to reduce blood clotting, to strengthen the blood vessels, and to minimize the risk of multiple heart-related ailments, rutin can be considered a cardioprotective nutrient.

More than just assisting in more efficient utilization of vitamin C, rutin can encourage the production of collagen. This protein is well-known for being one of the primary building blocks of skin, hair, and nails, thus making rutin a nutrient that can support the health of all three.

Furthermore, rutin can support the overall health of the body through scavenging and eliminating free radicals.

Where to learn more

• Antioxidant-Rich Capers Could Protect Consumers from Cancer Effects of Meat Consumption
• Health Benefits of Organic Noodles
• Rutin flavonoids lower blood clot risk to help prevent stroke and heart attack
• Wealth Opportunity: Blue Honeysuckle Berries are Hottest New Superfood

Summary

Rutin’s most notable benefits lie in its cardioprotective nature. By helping the heart, it can prevent many conditions relating to this organ such as heart attack, stroke, pulmonary embolism, and high cholesterol. Taking rutin with vitamin C can improve the activity of this vitamin.

Sources include:

Phytochemicals.info
Healthline.com
RaySahelian.com